4-H Culminating Events

Public Presentations are an opportunity for 4-Hers to present on projects, topics, and ideas they are passionate about. This can be done through speeches, presentations, dramatic interpretations, PSAs, and video communications. These projects can later be entered into the county and state competitions, and are required for fair premiums. If you are interested in our horse program, horse communications can substitute for your public presentation.

The Essex County Fair is a major county-wide event, which takes place once a year in the summer. 4-H youth, families, volunteers, mentors, and club leaders are encouraged to participate, support, and visit the Fair throughout the week. 4-Hers can enter projects and animals into the fair through 4-H static exhibits and animal shows (i.e., 4-H Horse Show). This is a great chance to demonstrate all the hard work that goes into 4-H by its members. The 2026 fair is from July 29 through August 2. 

The Harvest Festival was created in 2016 to celebrate local farms and food, support our local economy, and give community members experiences that help us all learn and grow together. It is a day designed to bring farms, local businesses, and the community together, giving regional farms an opportunity to showcase their work and community members a chance to learn, try new foods, and meet the makers. 

4-H Career Explorations is a 3-day event that aims to expand possibilities for young people by connecting them to Cornell University, sparking interests in careers and career pathways, developing academic, leadership, and life skills, and providing opportunities to experience college life.

The New York State Fair takes place in Syracuse, New York, in August. 4-Hers who participate in other culminating 4-H events, like the Essex County Fair, are welcome to attend state competitions and enjoy the amenities of New York’s biggest Fair. 

4-H Capital Days is an NYSACCE4-HE-sponsored event that allows youth to meet and interact with legislators and tell their 4-H story. 4-H Capital Days creates awareness of career opportunities in the New York State government, a better understanding of state government, and networking with delegates from other counties. Delegates are chosen by their county 4-H program.

Environmental Field Days is a one or two-day event in the spring where young people in schools and homeschool settings are invited to participate in hands-on activities and demonstrations about a variety of environmental topics. Learn and work with local experts as they dive into topics including [need topics here]

4-Hers and 4-H clubs with a primary focus on animal science, specifically horses and the equine program, are encouraged to join our regional horse competition. 4-Hers are tested on their knowledge of equine science. This is a great opportunity for youth to learn and practice.